August 18, 2010

Water Your Wife!

Words of encouragement to a wife are like water to a plant.

I read that quote yesterday and I thought yes, so true!

My husband is masterful at showing me love: he plans date nights, gives me a box of Junior Mints just when I'm withdrawing, he is an engaged parent, and he leads our home well. But there is nothing like a well-timed word of encouragement from him! Hearing Kyle say that I'm a good mom or that he appreciates my cooking or that I'm beautiful or that he sees God using me--those words reenergize me for days.

Husbands, especially if you're wife is a stay-at-home mom or socially isolated in some way, you may be the only source of encouragement your wife receives on a continual basis.

In Proverbs 31, it describes a husband who is well known in the community, sitting among the elders of the land. It is there that he most likely receives the respect he desires (while hopefully also getting it at home). Where does the wife receive encouragement? Her children rise up and call her blessed; Her husband also, and he praises her: "Many daughters have done well, but you excel them all."

For mothers of young children who are not yet capable of expressing appreciation, the husband's opportunity is not only to encourage his wife, but to also teach his children thankfulness and respect toward their mother.

What a ministry husbands have in encouraging their wives! It is nurturing to the heart of a woman, compelling her forward in her service to her family and community.

Wives, do you agree? How does your husband specifically encourage you and what does it mean to you?

Hello!

Welcome! My name is Christine Hoover. I am a church planting pastor's wife, a mom, an author, and a speaker who loves encouraging women with gospel truths. You can read more about me and what I write about by clicking on my picture. Thanks for stopping by!